Domain - LOTE

In our increasingly interconnected and interdependent world, learning a language other than English has never been more important. It illuminates numerous personal, social, cultural and employment opportunities, and is a challenging and incredibly rewarding pursuit.

In 2020, the LOTE Domain has focussed primarily on increasing the use of the target language within class and to continue to work with AIM (Accelerative Integrated Methodology) gesture-based learning program in the Middle School. It has been heartening to see videos of some of our talented students’ storytelling with AIM in Mandarin on our social media pages, shining a light on their commitment and appreciation of language learning in our community. This multi-sensory approach has catered to a range of learning styles and has really engaged our students by providing a change of pace and opportunities to learn kinaesthetically. For senior students, frequent French tutoring sessions have also improved their fluency and confidence in their abilities by exposing them to a wider variety of voices and experts.

Our LOTE team is always on the lookout for opportunities for students to get involved with extra-curricular activities and excursions. In Term 1, Year 10 students were fortunate enough to be able to attend the French Film Festival screenings and viewed Roxane, a comedy about a French poultry farmer who read one of the French classics to his hens to encourage them to produce the best eggs possible. Events such as this cement just how relevant and satisfying learning a language can be. A small group of Year 9 students also participated in the Global Youth Advocacy Forums, and this allowed students to connect with other young people across Asia, building their sense of community alongside their leadership skills.

Our goals evolved throughout the year to encompass a focus on independent and differentiated learning, given that students have had to take much more responsibility for their studies this year. Platforms such as Education Perfect has been fantastic in providing short tutorials, and the activities gave students a sense of progressive achievement along with meaningful feedback along the way. Similarly, opportunities to work together in Zoom breakout rooms were relished and provided a means to work collaboratively on practising their gestures and reinforcing skills in Mandarin or French.

Staff and students are commended for making the most of remote learning and finding creative ways to integrate language acquisition into their home life. A highlight was cooking demonstrations with recorded voice overs which were a chance to involve other family members and reveal hidden LOTE talents. In addition, the consistency of classroom opening routines such as practising greetings one-on-one with teachers provided our younger students with regular opportunities to connect with others and have a sense of structure to their lessons.

Watching students grow in their self-confidence throughout the year has truly been a privilege and I congratulate all LOTE students.

Nicole Biggelaar LOTE Domain Leader